3 reasons the Panthers will struggle in 2020
By Dean Jones
Why the Carolina Panthers will struggle: Offensive line play
The Carolina Panthers might have some outstanding weapons offensively in 2020 and beyond. But a huge question still remains over their offensive line.
They traded away perennial Pro Bowl guard Trai Turner to the Los Angeles Chargers in exchange for veteran left tackle Russell Okung. This was arguably the strangest decision made by the franchise this offseason. And it had a significant amount to do with the financial aspect of rebuilding a roster.
Related Story. Carolina Panthers News: Trai Turner trade ranked among worst offseason moves. light
That does not take away from the fact there is now a gaping hole on the interior that needs to be filled. John Miller and Michael Schofield were brought in to possibly plug and play in the short term. And the Panthers also have the scope to move tackle Dennis Daley into the guard position after he struggled mightily during his rookie season.
Center Matt Paradis is coming off a down year and will need to turn things around or he could be shown the door next spring. Okung might have something to offer during what could be his one and only season in Carolina. But he has had trouble staying healthy and if this transpires again, it would present a real problem.
The one bright spot going into 2020 is right tackle Taylor Moton. The lineman is progressing well and had the best season of his career in 2019. If he performs as expected then a big-money deal could be in the offing once competitive action concludes.
This patchwork unit needs to hold up against some formidable-looking pass-rushes on the schedule. It is going to be a long season if they crumble.